Police supporting summer anti-drink and drug driving campaign during FIFA World Cup

Gloucestershire Constabulary has joined police forces across the country in supporting a summer campaign aimed at reducing deaths and serious injuries caused by drink and drug driving.

Operation Spotlight, which is running for the month of July, is aimed at those who drive under the influence of drink or drugs, use a mobile phone while behind the wheel, drive at inappropriate speed and don't wear a seatbelt.

The multi-partnership campaign in Gloucestershire is co-ordinated by Gloucestershire Constabulary, Gloucestershire County Council, Gloucestershire Fire & Rescue Service and the Office of the Police and Crime Commissioner as part of the Road Safety Partnership.

It aims to educate drivers of the dangers and penalties they could face by getting behind the wheel after consuming alcohol and/or drugs.

Statistically, July sees the highest number of people killed or seriously injured on the UK road network and Operation Spotlight is a targeted operation to make the country's roads safer for all.

As the FIFA World Cup continues, the campaign also has an emphasis on ensuring people are enjoying matches while being aware of the penalties they could face if they are found to be driving after drinking alcohol or consuming drugs.

With most of England’s matches kicking off late at night, officers are urging people to not only think about how they will get home after the final whistle, but also how they will travel the following morning. 

Depending on the amount consumed, alcohol may continue entering the bloodstream hours after drinking has stopped, meaning drivers may still be over the legal limit for driving long after a night’s sleep.

The risk is particularly heightened following evening kick-offs, where celebrations can continue late into the night. 

There are serious consequences for people caught driving while under the influence of alcohol or drugs. A conviction can mean a driving ban, a hefty fine or even prison. Causing death while under the influence can result in life imprisonment. 

Motorists can expect to see more roadside police checks in both urban and rural areas across the county this summer. Enforcement action will also see the Special Constabulary conducting a number of proactive operations and Roads Policing officers making targeted patrols.

Superintendent Jessica Loxley-Clark from the Constabulary's Specialist Operations Unit said: "We want to do everything we can to ensure the roads of Gloucestershire are as safe as possible this summer.

"Our campaign will see an increased presence on the county’s roads with officers conducting roadside checks focusing on the Fatal Four causes of road deaths.

"We hope that the residents of Gloucestershire take their responsibilities as a road user seriously this summer as sadly we do see an increase in fatal and serious injury collisions over the summer months.

"Everyone has their own part to play in making our roads safer, choosing to make good decisions and encouraging family and friends to do the same."

Nick Evans, Deputy Police and Crime Commissioner and Chair of Gloucestershire’s Road Safety Partnership said: "Choosing to drink or take drugs before getting behind the wheel is never worth the risk. Driving under the influence puts not only your own life at risk, but the lives of passengers, pedestrians and other road users.

"We roll out this campaign every summer as we know in the warm weather people will be going out and drinking. But this year, with the football World Cup on, we know there are more excuses for people to be under the influence. But there is never an excuse for drink or drug driving.

"It is a dangerous crime that too often ends up killing people.

"Every serious collision has a lasting impact on families, friends and communities. By sharing this message every year we are helping to protect people across Gloucestershire and reduce the devastating consequences of drink and drug driving. I ask everyone to plan ahead, make safe travel arrangements and play their part in keeping our roads safe."

Cllr Lisa Spivey, leader of Gloucestershire County Council, said: "Summer should be a time to enjoy yourselves, whether that’s watching the football or spending time with friends and family, but it’s vital people think ahead about how they’ll get home. 

"Driving after drinking or taking drugs puts lives at risk and can have devastating consequences. This campaign is about helping people make safer choices and reminding everyone that we all have a part to play in keeping Gloucestershire’s roads safe. 

"Planning ahead, using public transport where possible or arranging a lift can make all the difference."

If you are concerned someone is drink or drug driving, or is planning to, report it immediately by calling 101 or 999 in an emergency. 

Alternatively you can report information anonymously to the independent crime-fighting charity Crimestoppers by calling 0800 555 111 or online at https://crimestoppers-uk.org/

THINK!- road safety campaign graphic